CWHN and the National Network on Environments and Women’s Health welcome Sharyle Patton, who will explore the uses of biomonitoring – the testing of one’s body for chemical exposure. She will look at how the experience of knowing one's body burden (the total amount of chemicals present in the human body at any given time) can help inform personal choice and political engagement.

While the findings from biomonitoring may be devastating to some on an individual level, Patton suggests that if the information is used with sensitivity and respect for tradition, it can be quite powerful in helping groups work for change in toxic chemical policy. A storyteller, Patton will illustrate her message with the experiences of women she has encountered through her work.